Trump privately asking aides if Pence is loyal: report

Trump reportedly questioned Pence’s allegiance so many times that many of his advisers are alarmed, as those kinds of inquiries tend to indicate that he is irritated with someone.

According to the Times, most people within the White House have been supportive of Pence when asked, but some of Trump’s outside advisers have suggested that the vice president may have used up his utility.

Trump has reportedly not made it clear whether he is seriously considering a 2020 ticket change or whether he is simply trying to get advisers’ opinions before the campaign begins.

The Times noted that some outside advisers have suggested outgoing United States Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley as a potential replacement for Pence. Trump praised Haley when she announced her intentions to leave her post at the U.N. in October.

At a press conference earlier this month, Trump asked Pence to be his 2020 running mate in an impromptu exchange.

“Well I haven’t asked him, but I hope so,” Trump said.

“Mike, will you be my running mate?” he added, calling on Pence to stand up.

The vice president nodded his head in affirmation as some White House staff in the room applauded.